Flipkart vs. Amazon: Which E-commerce Platform Should New Sellers Start With?
Introduction
The big surge in the e-commerce industry in India is on a high wave. With millions and millions of shoppers moving online and adding a huge number to lists on a daily basis, e-commerce platforms/marketplaces like Amazon India and Flipkart have become the top destinations for sellers who want to start/grow their businesses.
But apart from all good things as discussed above, here’s the challenge being faced-if you’re a new seller, which platform should you start with, Flipkart or Amazon? Should a seller try on both platforms, etc? Both of them, e-commerce marketplace/ platforms have a great reach, different seller policies, return policies, commission, fee structure, shipping, fulfillment, as well as unique advantages. Making the right choice can save you time, money, and effort in the long run and will provide you with success as a seller.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the differences between Flipkart vs. Amazon, helping you decide as a seller which platform is better suited for your products and business goals.
Why Selecting the Right Platform Matters
Selling online isn’t limited to only listing products—it’s about finding the right audience, putting the right price, and fulfilling the product on time. Each platform has its own strengths:
- Amazon is known for its global reach and premium customer base.
- Flipkart has a strong hold in India’s Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities.
By selecting the right e-commerce platform from the start, you can:
- Look for the right target audience.
- Keep seller costs under control.
- Build credibility faster.
- Scale your business in the right direction.
Amazon India – Key Highlights for Sellers
Amazon has become one of the most preferred and go-to platforms for Indian as well as global buyers. Here’s what you get as a seller:
Advantages
- A big customer base: Amazon attracts millions and millions of daily shoppers, especially from metros and urban cities. Now, Amazon’s base is increasing in tier 2 and tier 3 cities as well.
- Global brand trust: Customers are often willing to pay a premium on Amazon due to its strong reputation and assurance of product delivery.
- Range of product categories: From electronics to groceries, even small household products to heavy consumer durables, you can sell almost anything.
- Availability of Seller support tools: Services like FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon), Amazon Advertising, and detailed analytics reports make selling easier. They give ways to improve the number of orders.
Challenges
- High competition across almost every category.
- Slightly higher fees compared to Flipkart.
- Listing optimization requires more effort due to crowded categories and higher competition due to various sellers’ availability.
Flipkart – Key Highlights for Sellers
Flipkart has built its strength by focusing on the Indian market, especially in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. It has now reached remote villages as well.
Advantages
- Strong domestic presence: Flipkart is widely popular among Indian middle-class buyers.
- Category dominance: Flipkart is especially strong in electronics, lifestyle, clothing, and fashion.
- Beginner-friendly: Onboarding is quite simpler and less overwhelming for new sellers.
- Flipkart Smart Fulfilment: A program that helps sellers with faster deliveries and better rankings.
Challenges
- Smaller international presence compared to Amazon.
- Limited product categories as compared to Amazon.
- Marketing tools, reporting, and analytics are slightly less advanced than Amazon’s.
Flipkart vs. Amazon: Comparison
| Feature / Factor | Amazon India | Flipkart |
|---|---|---|
| Customer Reach | Global + India (urban focus) | Primarily India (Tier 2 & 3 stronghold) |
| Competition Level | Very high | Moderate in some categories |
| Fees & Commissions | Slightly higher | Comparatively lower |
| Fulfillment | FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) | Flipkart Smart Fulfilment |
| Advertising Options | Advanced PPC ads | Flipkart Ads (simpler) as compared to Amazon PPC |
| Onboarding & Setup | Detailed, requires effort | Easier for beginners |
| Best For | Premium brands, global sellers, wide categories | Budget-friendly products, fashion, lifestyle, and electronics |
Which Platform is the Preferred option for New Sellers?
So, should you start with Flipkart or Amazon? The answer depends on your business model and product type:
- Sellers should choose Amazon if:
- You want global exposure.
- You are selling premium or high-value products.
- You have a budget for ads and competitive pricing.
- Sellers should choose Flipkart if:
- You’re targeting Indian middle-class buyers.
- You’re selling fashion, lifestyle, or affordable electronics.
- You want an easier onboarding process with slightly less competition.
- You are looking to penetrate remote areas as well. Its reach is even in far-off areas
Pro Tip: Many successful sellers eventually expand to both platforms. But for beginners, it’s smart to start with one, master it, and then diversify.
Tips for New Sellers (Regardless of E-commerce Platform)
Whether you pick Flipkart or Amazon or both in one go, the following strategies will help you grow faster:
- Do proper market research – You should check demand and competition before listing products. You may plan and make an ICP (ideal customer persona), who is your ideal customer.
- Optimize product listings – Write clear titles, detailed descriptions, and upload high-quality images from different angles (also more than one image to be put)
- Use ads wisely – You should start with small budgets on Flipkart Ads or Amazon PPC to boost visibility.
- Focus on reviews and ratings – Good customer service and timely delivery improve your seller ranking. You should be prompt in fulfillment, shipping, and delivery. Also, you should promptly return, exchange, and issue refunds.
- Track analytics – Use Seller Hub (Flipkart) or Seller Central (Amazon) to measure performance and make data-driven decisions.
Conclusion
Both Amazon India and Flipkart provide excellent opportunities for new sellers in India. The selection of the right platform depends on your product category, target audience, and budget.
- Amazon is good if you want global reach and premium buyers.
- Flipkart is good if you want to target Indian shoppers in growing cities with budget-friendly products.
If you’re serious about selling online but not sure where and how to begin, Newgenmax can help. From Flipkart and Amazon account setup to listing optimization, ads management, and growth strategy, we take care of everything so you can focus on running your business, and we take care of other things for e-commerce platforms/marketplaces.
FAQs
1. Which is better to start selling on Flipkart or Amazon in India?
It depends on your product type. Amazon works better for global reach and premium products, while Flipkart is ideal for the Indian lifestyle and budget categories. Flipkart has reached tier 2, tier 3, and rural India. Amazon users are mainly urban users.
2. Which platform has lower fees for sellers – Flipkart or Amazon?
Flipkart generally has slightly lower commissions, but fees vary depending on the category. Amazon has the option of a fixed cost or a cost on each sale.
3. Can I sell on both Amazon and Flipkart at the same time?
Yes, many sellers do. However, it’s recommended to master one platform first before expanding.
4. Which is easier for beginners: Flipkart or Amazon?
Flipkart is normally considered more beginner-friendly due to simpler and easier-to-use onboarding.
5. What are the main differences between Amazon FBA and Flipkart Smart Fulfilment?
Both handle storage, packing, and delivery, but Amazon FBA offers global reach while Flipkart Smart Fulfilment focuses on faster delivery within India.
